European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker met with Cypriot President Nicos Anastasiades on Thursday during on an official two-day visit to the island.
Juncker said he has a personal friendship with Anastasiades and feels very close to Cyprus. He praised the country for the progress it has made since adopting a reform-for-cash program in 2013.
“Cyprus found itself in a difficult economic position in 2013,” he said and added “The Cyprus I am visiting today is very different from Cyprus in January-February 2013. The economy is beginning to grow, the financial sector has stabilized. This was not an easy thing. And you are again ready to take advantage of future opportunities.”
Juncker praised Anastasiades and Cypriots for their commitment to the program and for taking tough decisions that were worthwhile.
“Commitment paid off in Cyprus as it did in Ireland, Portugal and Spain. And I hope that others take note. Because sometimes you have examples in the region you can easily imitate and take the same direction,” he said.
Juncker also expressed hope that the peace talks between Cyprus and the Turkish-occupied northern part of the island that restarted on May 15 this year will have fruitful results and lead to an agreement between the two sides.
“If this happens, and I am praying that it happens, this will not be good news just for Cyprus. This will be good news for the entire European Union. And I would like to let you know that I am taking personal daily interest in the developments that are happening under your leadership, together with the efforts of your counterparts,” Juncker said.
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